BRAVE Andrew Selby, who has lost a life-long battle against illness, is to be remembered in Wilmslow by a community inspired by his courage.

Andrew died earlier this year, aged 35, after spending his whole life fighting serious illness.

In an emotional tribute this week his family told of his amazing zest for life and of the turbulent but inspiring last years.

Kidney failure claimed his life at a Manchester hospital in May. He had been admitted to the renal ward three months before his death - enough time for wheelchair bound Andrew to paint a new day room for patients there.

"He did it a week after having half his foot amputated, that tells you all about Andrew's personality, brave and kind," said mum Lilian Selby, of Tarporley Walk, Colshaw.

"It really came out in the hospital, despite the fact he was suffering he did so much to help other people there, he was the life of the renal ward."

Hospital staff at Manchester Royal Infirmary agreed: "Whenever he was admitted as a patient on the wards, he had an impact on all those around him," said nurse Tanya Mitchell.

"Patients who had previously been withdrawn would suddenly come back to life and be much happier and chattier. Many seem to benefit from the energy he had."

Andrew's fight against kidney failure followed a long battle with diabetes - which he was diagnosed with at 13 years old.

Lilian said: "Most of his next three years were spent in hospital. His attendance at school from then on was scant. Despite this he always tried to live life as well as possible."

Over the next few years Andrew struggled hard to lead a normal life, getting work and passing a college course in jewellery making. He later set up a workshop where he repaired and made jewellery.

Dad David said: "He always showed a great flair for art, and a real talent. This was despite having failing sight."

In January 2000 Andrew learnt he had kidney failure, requiring him to have dialyses treatment and restricting his mobility.

"At first he became frustrated and depressed but after a time it brought out his finest attributes, introducing him to new hobbies and pastimes," said Lilian.

"He always had great support from everyone in Colshaw, and throughout all the heartache and sorrow there came happiness and laughter. This lasted right up to when he died."

In memory of Andrew family and friends organised a tribute night that raised £2,563 for a memorial bench and for the British Kidney Patient Association (BKPA).

They also wanted to raise awareness about the shortage of facilities and nursing staff dedicated to patients with kidney problems.

"The North West is the most underfunded region for dialysis patients and we saw that facilities were stretched to breaking point. We want this to change," said David.

The family, including his younger sister Susan, paid this last tribute to Andrew: "As we look back over the years in which we watched the struggles of our only son, to lead a full life, the family is filled with both pride and admiration, and gratitude that we have been chosen as parents to share his life."